After years of temporary interventions, Phongmey Gewog in Trashigang is calling for a permanent solution to recurring land instability caused by the Yudhari stream. The stream continues to damage roads and farmland especially during the monsoon season. The issue was also raised in the National Assembly.
During peak monsoon season, the Yudhari stream swells significantly, eroding the base of the road connecting Phongmey–Trashigang.
As a result, sections of the road often sink, disrupting traffic.
Last year, residents of Phongmey and parts of Sakteng were forced to use a longer route for more than a month due to road subsidence.
It has affected nearby schools and residents, while also disrupting access to timely healthcare services.
According to the Phongmey Gup, it is time to come up with a long-term solution.
Phongmey Gup Sonam Wangmo said, “The farmers have moved to other places, and Karma Gonpa village has now become empty due to land instability. Farmers are suffering, and the road is frequently cut off, making it difficult for travelling. Although temporary measures have been taken, they do not address the issue. Rather than wasting money, it would be better to come up with a permanent solution.”
Likewise, Phongmey Mangmi Wangdi, said, “We are facing difficulties due to Yudhari stream. Every year, during monsoon season, the road is blocked by erosion and flooding. More than 300 households of Merak, Sakteng, Radhi and Phongmey Gewogs are affected.”
During one of the question hour sessions in the National Assembly, the Radhi_Sakteng MP, inquired about the government’s long-term plans to address the issue.
The minister for infrastructure and transport, in his written response, stated that as part of a long-term slope stabilization and mitigation strategy, the subsurface drainage work will begin in the 2026–2027 financial year.
The Department of Surface Transport has conducted several geotechnical assessments over the past decade and explored realigning the road, but no suitable alternative route was found.
Findings show that frequent flooding of the Yudhari stream, fragile geological conditions, and high groundwater saturation are causing slope instability, especially during the monsoon.
The minister added that the technical team will continue to monitor the area and take necessary measures.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
